Special Education Teacher how-to

How to Write a Measurable IEP Goal

Strong goals guide instruction and show progress.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Strong goals guide instruction and show progress. In short: review; identify; describe, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Review the student’s present levels.

  2. Identify the skill to improve.

  3. Describe the conditions.

  4. State the measurable behavior.

  5. Set criteria and timeline.

  6. Plan how progress will be measured.

Safety reminders for special education teachers

  • Follow behavior and crisis plans
  • Use safe physical support techniques only when trained
  • Know medical plans
  • Supervise students closely

IDEA · IEP · FAPE · LRE · Accommodation · Modification: see the full special education teacher glossary.

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